Last Updated on August 28, 2020 by Ellen Christian
Have you been wondering how to reconnect with nature? Maybe you’ve been putting in too many hours at work. Or, maybe you’ve been watching more TV than you have been spending time outside. I spend more time staring out my office window, wishing I was outside than I do outside. I spend about an hour a day outside either walking or working in the garden. I wish it was more, but for now, that’s what I have available. If you wish you could spend more time outside either alone or with the kids, I wanted to share a resource and a few of my favorite photos from my neighborhood with you.
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How to Reconnect with Nature
June 11th was National Get Outdoors Day. Do you remember how easy it was to spend time in nature growing up? Today, it can seem hard to break free from work and responsibilities. It’s worth getting outside and sharing that same experience with your kids. Nature is closer than you think.
Every neighborhood has a #Naturehood. To find a neighborhood park or green space near you, visit DiscoverTheForest.org. These “naturehoods” are just a short drive away, making it easy for families to unplug from the daily routine and reconnect with nature.
Populations have shifted away from rural settings to metropolitan areas, with over 80% of Americans living in cities, and with fewer connections than ever to natural areas. DiscoverTheForest.org highlights that urban forests offer many of the same benefits as national forests, but they’re right in the neighborhood. Beyond the swings, slides and clearings, there are trails, trees, wildlife and water just waiting for the urban dweller.
Research has shown that children who play outside have lower stress levels and more active imaginations, become fitter and leaner, develop stronger immune systems and are more likely to become environmentally conscious in the future. According to campaign research done by Euro RSCG, 88 percent of children today say they like being in nature, and 79 percent wish they could spend more time there.
DiscoverTheForest.org features an interactive map tool that enables users to search for nearby forests and parks, and filter by zip code and desired activities. Free outdoor activities are also available for download and printing, which you can take the next time you visit.
What’s stopping you from reconnecting with nature?
Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.
There is something so calming about being out in nature – I used to love walking to the middle of a nearby common and just sitting and watch the dog play – one think I miss being less mobile. x
I completely agree. Sometimes even sitting in the backyard will help relax me!
This is a great reminder to slow down and enjoy the area. I leave in small farmer town, and I think it would be great to get out and walk more. Enjoy the environment!
I really find that it helps me quite a bit!
I’ve never been to that site before, but I’ll definitely use it in the future. We love to get outside when the weather is nice!
I do too, Denise!
One of the best parts of living in Southern California is we get to reconnect with nature on a daily basis. Always something new and wonderful to see and spend time outside.
That must be wonderful!